Maison Law helps anyone that’s injured in car accidents in California. Although anyone can get injured in a car accident, seniors are at a greater risk. The consequences for older adults can be more severe and urgent, making the aftermath even more challenging to manage. If you’re in this situation, it’s important to take steps to get the financial support you or your loved one needs to get better. Contact us today to schedule a free consultation and learn how we can help.
Do I Need a Lawyer After a Car Accident as a Senior?
If you’ve been injured in a car accident as a senior, you might wonder if you need a lawyer. The answer often depends on the severity of the accident. For minor incidents, legal action might not be necessary. However, because each situation is unique, having our team on your side can be valuable. We take pride in our approach for clients in similar situations, which includes doing the following:
- Explaining your legal options and rights.
- investigating the accident to figure out who is at fault.
- Gathering important evidence, such as photos and your medical records.
- Speaking with witnesses and experts to strengthen your case.
- Handling negotiations with insurance companies and the other party’s lawyers.
Our goal is to get you a fair settlement for your injuries and make the process as smooth as possible for you. We offer free initial consultations and work on a contingency-fee basis, so there’s no upfront cost to you.
What’s the Legal Process for Seniors After a Car Accident?
If you’re a senior who’s been injured in a car accident, the legal process is similar to any other injury claim, but with specific considerations for your situation. Here’s how it works:
When you decide to take legal action, you’ll be the one filing the claim, and our team will support you through the entire process. Whether you choose to file an insurance claim or a lawsuit, certain damages can be recovered, including:
- Medical expenses – These cover both your current and future medical costs.
- Property damage – This category of damages is for repair or replacement costs to your vehicle or any other personal items that were damaged in the accident.
- Out-of-pocket expenses – These cover costs like transportation and prescriptions you’ll need
- Pain and suffering – These damages address physical and mental pain you go through because of the accident.
- Emotional distress – Similarly, these damages relate to the emotional side of the accident, including causing anxiety, depression, or PTSD.
- Loss of enjoyment of life – These damages are for any reduced ability to enjoy activities.
- Loss of companionship – These damages deal with the strain on family relationships.
In California, there’s a two-year statute of limitations for injury claims, so it’s important to take action within this timeframe. Our team is here to help you navigate the process and ensure you receive the support you need. But there’s things you need to do, as well.
What Can You Do to Strengthen Your Claim?
Being in a car accident is always stressful and confusing, but especially so if you’re a senior. But that doesn’t mean you’re helpless in the situation. In fact, you still have the responsibility of building a strong claim. The best way to do that is to take steps after the accident to gather the information and evidence you’ll need. So, here’s what you can do to strengthen your claim:
- Get to safety – First, carefully exit your vehicle and move to a safe spot on the road. Then, check yourself and others for any injuries.
- Report the accident – Call the local police or sheriff’s department to report the accident. They’ll respond to the scene, clear any hazards, and document what happened in an official report.
- Get medical care – If you or anyone else is hurt, call 911 right away. An ambulance will come to the scene and give you medical attention. Afterward, follow up with your doctor or visit an emergency room for further care.
- Call your insurance company – Once your injuries are taken care of, call your insurance company to report the accident and begin the claims process.
- Gather evidence – If possible, take photos and videos of the accident scene, including any vehicle damage and injuries. This documentation will be important later.
- Exchange information – Share your insurance details with others involved in the accident, even if you weren’t at fault. Also, collect information from the other driver.
These steps are crucial after any car accident. Even if you weren’t at fault, you’ll need to present a strong case to recover damages. The legal process can take time, so it’s important to not only be patient, but understand who you’ll be going up against.
Who Pays For Your Damages in a Car Accident Claim?
No matter what your injuries are, there’s certain legal protections you have. The main one is the ability to file an injury claim, but you might be wondering who actually has to pay for your damages. The good news here, relatively speaking, is that there’s a set way this is figured out in California: establishing negligence.
In simple terms, negligence means that someone didn’t do what they were supposed to do to keep you safe while on the road. In legal terms, negligence means liability, so whoever was negligent and caused your car accident has to pay for your damages.
But again, it depends on the circumstances of what actually happened. In a typical car accident, there’s a lot of different people that could potentially be involved, like:
- Other drivers
- Passengers or pedestrians
- Car or parts makers
- Government agencies
- Employers, if the driver is in a company vehicle
Figuring out who’s at fault is key to your claim. It shows who you’ll be filing against and who will pay for your damages. As a senior with injuries, these costs can be high.
What Happens to Seniors in California Car Accidents?
As a senior, any type of accident is going to probably result in some level of injury. But a car accident is both common and, unfortunately, more challenging due to the nature of the impact and longer healing processes. Specifically, though, you have to be prepared for certain types of injuries like:
- Broken bones – Many seniors often suffer from broken bones and fractures in car accidents. Healing takes longer, and there’s a greater chance of complications like trouble moving or lasting disability.
- Head trauma – Concussions and other head injuries can cause memory problems and take a long time to heal. They may affect your ability to live independently and do daily activities.
- Soft tissue injuries – Injuries like sprains, strains, and whiplash can lead to persistent pain and discomfort. Seniors may need extra physical therapy and time to recover.
These injuries often require a lot of medical care, like hospital stays and maybe even surgery. They can also make it harder for you to do everyday things and be independent. Understanding these issues and getting legal help from our team is a great way you can get the financial support you need to cover your medical costs and support your recovery.
Senior Injury Victims Can Turn to Maison Law After a Car Accident in California
If you’re a senior involved in a car accident in California, acting quickly is crucial. Quick action helps take care of your immediate needs like medical care and supports your long-term recovery.
At Maison Law, our experienced lawyers are committed to making sure you have what you need for a successful claim, regardless of the accident’s cause. You can turn to our team for support and guidance. Don’t wait–contact us today for a free consultation.
